'Integrity Index': Ohio ranks low in transparency

A national
study released this week by the Chicago nonprofit watchdog ranked Ohio 40
th among the states in enabling citizens “to fight corruption by attending public
meetings, reviewing government documents and raising questions without fear of retribution.”

Ohio’s overall “Integrity Index” score was pegged at 49.5 percent, below the national average of
55 percent, in the examination of state public record, open meeting, whistleblower and
conflict-of-interest laws. (Ohio is slipping. The state ranked 31st in the U.S. in a similar study
in 2008.)

The Buckeye State breakdown:

Public records: 49.4 percent (26
th among the states). Ohio appeared to be dinged by the lack of a formal appeals process
on record denials. Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine offers a
mediation program, but it is voluntary, non-binding and cannot handle
complaints involving state agencies and universities. The only other alternative: Spend money and
go to court.

Open meetings: 42.5 percent (37
th). The state’s score may drop lower in the next study. The recently enacted state
budget included a provision to allow local governmental bodies to meet in secret to discuss
economic development matters.

Whistleblower protection: 46.9 percent (44
th). The study apparently was not enamored of the protections extended in state law, and
potential penalties against public employers, to safeguard public employees who report government
corruption.

Conflict of interest: 59.4 percent (35
th). Public transparency of most officials’ financial-disclosure statements is
non-existent in Ohio. Lawmakers’
statements can
be obtained online, but those filed with the
Ohio Ethics Commission cannot be
viewed via the web. You have to visit its office and look at paper or request emailed copies.

Rhode Island, New Jersey and Illinois rated highest on the “Integrity Index,” with Better
Government Association officials saying it was due to governmental scandals that served to
strengthen transparency. Montana, Wyoming and our neighbor to the north, Michigan, rated as the
three worst.